As a landscape pro or lover of beautiful gardens, your job or desire is transforming outdoor spaces into works of art. You have an eye for beauty and design but are unsure about how to bring them to life — even pros need inspiration now and then. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to shake up your outdoor gardening design or a landscape professional seeking exciting ideas for a challenging new client, I’ve got you covered with this walkthrough on how to decorate a garden.
In this post, I’ll guide you through the latest trends in garden decor and show you how to create custom looks your clients (or neighbours) will love. From my years of experience as an industrial designer, I’ve found innovative ways to pop an outdoor space, from funky yard art to luxurious water features. Take your gardening game to the next level this season with these simple yet valuable tips for decorating a showstopping garden.
6 Simple Garden Decoration Ideas to Get You Started
Decorating your garden doesn’t have to be complicated — here are some simple ideas you can start with:
1. Add colorful planters.
An area I specialize in and have come to enjoy as a product designer is designing custom planters with corten steel. And what better way to beautify a garden than adding this rustic beauty to compliment the natural scenery?
My custom corten steel planters are rustic yet stylish, perfect for gardens — group a few together for an eye-catching display. You can also try terra cotta, concrete, or wood planters in different shapes and sizes — check out this guide on the different types of planters for more inspo.
2. Include garden sculptures.
Besides making planters, I also enjoy making metal sculptures from aluminium steel, and I can testify to how beautiful your garden can become when you utilize a beautiful metal sculpture. Whimsical sculptures, like animals or abstract pieces, are ideal. Also, metal, stone, and wooden sculptures are popular and weather-resistant. Place them among plants or as freestanding focal points.
3. Use lighting for nighttime ambience.
String lights, lanterns, and spotlights illuminate your garden after dark. They create a warm glow and highlight key features.
4. Plant fragrant flowers.
Nothing is more inviting than lavender, jasmine, or roses. Fragrant flowers make time in your garden a multi-sensory experience.
5. Add a water feature.
The soothing sound of running water calms the mind and soul. A small fountain or pond, surrounded by lush greenery, creates an oasis in your outdoor space.
6. Include garden furniture.
Benches, chairs, tables, and hammocks invite visitors to sit, relax and enjoy the surroundings. Look for all-weather furniture made of steel, aluminium, wood, or plastic resin.
The Best Garden Decorations for All Budgets
Creating a beautiful garden doesn’t have to be expensive. With some creativity and budget-friendly options, you can transform your outdoor space into a stunning oasis without breaking the bank.
1. Aluminum Planters
Aluminum planters are a fantastic option for gardeners who value quality. With their lightweight, durable, and weather-resistant nature, these planters provide a practical and long-lasting solution. You’ll find a wide range of aluminum planters available on my Etsy Shop, allowing you to personalize your garden's aesthetic.
2. DIY Projects
Embrace your creative side and jump on some do-it-yourself (DIY) projects to decorate your garden. One popular DIY project is painting and distressing terra cotta pots. Additionally, consider making your concrete planters using molds.
3. Repurposed Decor
Think outside the box when it comes to garden decorations. Consider repurposing old items or finding inexpensive alternatives to expensive garden accessories. For example, you can paint wooden crates and use them as planters or storage containers.
3 Unique Garden Decor Ideas to Make Your Space Stand Out
1. Corten Steel Planters
Corten steel planters are popular for adding an industrial and natural garden aesthetic. Made from weathering steel, they develop a beautiful rust-colored patina over time, giving them a unique and eye-catching appearance.
2. Metal Garden Sculptures
Metal sculptures can serve as captivating focal points in your garden. Corten steel, aluminum, or welded rebar sculptures offer durability and artistic flair. You can choose from abstract shapes, animal figures, or decorative designs.
3. Natural Stone Accents
Incorporating natural stones into your garden design adds a touch of elegance and timelessness. Large stones, boulders, granite slabs, bluestone, or flagstone can serve as stunning accents that create visual interest.
FAQs: How to Decorate a Garden
What can I add to make my garden look nice?
- Garden Sculptures: Stone, metal, or wood sculptures add visual interest.
- Plants: Group plants of different sizes and colors together.
- Water Features: A small fountain or pondless waterfall is soothing.
- Wildlife: Birdhouses or feeders enhance the garden experience.
How should I arrange colors in my garden?
Choose a color theme like cool blues and purples or bright reds and yellows. Repeat colors throughout the space to create rhythm, and use the color wheel for guidance on contrasting pairs like blue and orange.
Need a Design Partner?
I’m a designer and landscape professional and can help you bring your vision to life. I can design and build pieces tailored to your needs—get in touch with me to plan your next garden facelift.